I have spent over 25 years in the public safety software development business. I had a vision to create a completely new software solution with a totally integrated platform. Most of our competitors were still working with independent modules and redundant data entry, but I knew we could develop a new solution that would eliminate duplicate data entry and reduce workloads for our customers by replacing the old ways of doing business. In creating our new platform, I was reminded of the Phoenix, in Greek Mythology that was regenerated into new life and so ProPhoenix was founded. The ProPhoenix Wireless Digital Assistant (WDA) App provides your officers all the same robust, powerful features found on a traditional laptop but with the convenience of a tablet or smart phone.

What was the inspiration behind starting your company?

I realized the public safety market needed a new approach that not only met the demands of the market but also utilized new technology. I believed public safety deserved a superior product that provided things that were lacking in the industry. My goal was to create software solutions at a reasonable cost that could adapt and continue to improve the user experience while allowing us to stay responsive to the technology needs of the changing market. I believe we have met and exceeded those expectations.

What is your signature product and how does it work?

Our signature product is the Phoenix Suite of Public Safety Software. It is one system built as a fully integrated, comprehensive package for Communications Centers, Law Enforcement, Corrections, Fire and EMS agencies. We use the latest Microsoft technologies and we were one of the leaders in our industry to develop completely on .NET architecture. This scalable architecture allows us to provide superior integrated solutions for any size agency or installation.

Why do you believe your products are essential to the public safety community?

We were the first to move to site licensing to remove the ala carte and client licensing model of our competitors. This replaces the old “nickel and dime” approach. We provide site licensing for an unlimited number of users along with no cost version releases and enhancements. This really gives the communities a high return on their investment. We also focus on officer and community safety by providing real time data and a sophisticated analytics package to drive intelligence-based policing to increase efficiency and effectiveness. I feel it is critical for our users to have the information they need to do their jobs, when they need it, regardless of whether they are in the station or on the street.

What is the biggest challenge in today's market?

Our biggest challenge is in the controlled growth of our company to remain competitive while employing lean business practices to control costs and prices. ProPhoenix is a privately held company that develops and provides all goods and services with no subcontractors. All project management, training, installation, and data conversion services are done in-house. It is our goal to be competitive in pricing while providing first rate customer service. We have never merged, acquired, or been acquired by other companies, which is pretty unique in this industry.

What do your customers like best about ProPhoenix and your products?

We treat our customers as family and maintain close working relationships with each and every one of them. They have a voice in what features they want us to develop, and we value their feedback. They appreciate our quick response to their needs and the personalized service of our support team, trainers, and project managers. Our current customers and those who are considering making a switch have told us repeatedly how our products are more comprehensive than others they have seen. We employ Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) who have had practical experience on many levels in law enforcement, fire service, and corrections. We understand their business and how to help them.

What is the most rewarding part of serving the first responder community?

I have committed 25+ years to creating and delivering valuable data solutions through our applications and the ability to share information between our first responders. The reward is seeing and hearing about how our tools have improved their ability to get their jobs done safely and efficiently. I often hear from our users that we have improved their daily lives and improved their safety by providing real time information. It gives me and our staff great satisfaction that we are accomplishing our mission, and it just does not get any better than that.

What is next for your company?

We are sticking to our long term goal of being a leader in this industry. We are not for sale and we are not looking to acquire other companies. We will remain true to ourselves and focus on our mission of providing superior, feature-rich public safety software with excellent customer service. As part of our plan, we are increasing our marketing efforts through greater exposure in the marketplace and online. We have hired additional sales representatives to introduce our products to new regions in the country.